10.2

• What must you distinguish between when evaluating information?

  Opinion, anecdote, and evidence
• What types of ideas should you differentiate in information evaluation?

  Scientific and non-scientific ideas
• What does the quality of your evidence refer to?


  The reliability and credibility of the information presented
• What do validity and authority of data sources assess?


  The trustworthiness and expertise of the information source
• What can help identify possible errors and biases in information?

  The CRAAP test
• What does 'currency' refer to in the CRAAP test?


  The timeliness of the information
• What should you consider regarding the currency of information?


  When it was published or updated
• Why might older sources still be relevant?


  If the topic does not require current information
• What does 'relevance' assess in the CRAAP test?


  The importance of the information to your needs
• What should you evaluate regarding the relevance of information?


  If it relates to your topic or answers your question
• What does 'authority' refer to in the CRAAP test?


  The source of the information
• What should you check about the author in terms of authority?


  The author's credentials and organizational affiliations
• Why is it important to know if the author is qualified?


  To ensure they are credible to write on the topic
• What does 'accuracy' evaluate in the CRAAP test?


  The reliability and correctness of the content
• What should you consider regarding the accuracy of information?


  Where it comes from and if it is supported by evidence
• What does it mean if information has been reviewed or refereed?


  It has been evaluated by experts before publication
• What should you assess about the language or tone of the information?


  If it seems unbiased and free of emotion
• What does 'purpose' refer to in the CRAAP test?


  The reason the information exists
• What should you determine about the purpose of the information?


  If it is to inform, teach, sell, entertain, or persuade
• What should you consider regarding the point of view of the information?


  If it appears objective and impartial
• What social factors should you consider in your research?

  Possible discrimination, prejudice, or disadvantage
• What economic factors should you consider in your research?


  The application of your research at a larger scale and economic challenges
• What do political factors involve in research evaluation?


  Recent political discussions and current government policies
• What do legal factors involve in research evaluation?


  Current legalities and regulatory bodies affecting the research
• What might you need to research regarding legal factors in your report?


  Current laws and acts related to your topic